Fátima, Lourdes & Shrines of Spain - Faith-Based Travel

Welcome to Portugal! Check into your hotel, and tonight, meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers. (D)

On your guided sightseeing tour of the capital of Portugal, see the enormous monument dedicated to Henry the Navigator, as well as the 16th-century Belém Tower, and the Moorish citadel. Visit the Cathedral La Sé , where St. Anthony was baptized, and St. Anthony’s Church, where it is said he was born. Admire the beauty of St. Mary of Belém Church, part of the Jeronimos Monastery complex. This building dates to the mid-1400s and was built as thanks to the Virgin Mary for Vasco de Gama’s successful voyage to India. Leaving Lisbon, head north to Fátima, home to one of the most famous Catholic shrines. Enjoy an orientation walk and visit the Tomb of the Visionaries and the Chapel of the Apparitions, where the Virgin Mary repeatedly appeared to three shepherd children in 1917, culminating in her revelation of the Three Secrets of Fátima. This evening, join pilgrims from around the world for the Rosary and candlelight procession at Our Lady of Fátima Basilica. Today's Distance: 81 mi / 130 km (B,D)

Spend the day at the Sanctuary at leisure or follow in the formidable footsteps of the Knights Templar on an optional visit to the mysterious Convent of Christ in Tomar, featuring the Charola, a round church with exquisite frescoes and intricate carvings. Upon return to Fatima, attend [M] Mass at the Sanctuary of Our Lady with time to wander on your own. This evening, perhaps join in praying the Rosary once more. (B,D)

Journey north and stop in Braga, one of the oldest Christian cities in the world, and visit the Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte, UNESCO World Heritage site and pilgrimage destination, where devout followers have walked the “Stations of the Cross” for contemplation and penance since 1811. See the unique zigzag stairway dedicated to the five senses: sight, smell, hearing, touch, and taste—and the three theological virtues: faith, hope, and charity. Continue into Spain and head for Santiago de Compostela, one of the most significant pilgrimage destinations since the Middle Ages. On arrival, an orientation walk introduces you to the old city center. Then, attend the [M] Pilgrim Mass. Today's Distance: 280 mi / 450 km (B,D)